Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders

Name: Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can of young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 4 slider buns; Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, and extra BBQ sauce

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Collection

I love hosting gatherings where everyone can enjoy delicious food, so I often whip up these Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders. This dish has quickly become a favorite among friends and family for its mouthwatering flavors and effortless preparation. The jackfruit soaks up the tangy barbecue sauce perfectly, making it an excellent meat alternative that even non-vegans will appreciate. Plus, it's a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based meals into our diets without sacrificing taste!

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:01:34.693Z

When I first experimented with jackfruit as a meat substitute, I was amazed at how versatile it is. The texture mimics pulled pork, making it ideal for BBQ sliders. One tip I discovered is to sauté the jackfruit with spices before adding the sauce, as it elevates the flavor profile immensely and makes the dish even more scrumptious.

Moreover, letting the jackfruit marinate in the barbecue sauce for a while enhances its taste, allowing the bold flavors to penetrate deeper. It’s a simple step that takes minimal effort but makes a world of difference in flavor. I love serving these sliders with crispy coleslaw to add a nice crunch!

        You'll Love These Sliders Because
        Deliciously smoky and tangy flavor that pleases everyone.
A cruelty-free option that doesn't compromise on taste.
Easy to prepare, making them perfect for quick weeknight dinners or parties.

      

The Versatility of Jackfruit

Jackfruit serves as an incredible meat substitute due to its unique texture, resembling pulled pork when shredded. This property allows it to absorb flavors exceptionally well, particularly the tangy BBQ sauce in this recipe. When selecting the jackfruit, make sure to choose young green jackfruit in brine or water, as ripe jackfruit has a sweet flavor that may not work well with savory dishes. The brine helps to enhance the savory profile, making it an ideal choice for your sliders.

Its fibrous nature adds a delightful chewiness that mimics traditional meat in a satisfying way. When cooked properly, it becomes tender yet retains a slight bite, creating a balanced mouthfeel. To achieve the best results, shred the jackfruit finely to ensure that it integrates well with the other ingredients, allowing each bite to be packed with flavor.

Enhancing Flavor with BBQ Sauce

The right BBQ sauce is crucial to elevate the entire flavor profile of your sliders. A tangy, slightly sweet barbecue sauce will complement the smoky undertones you will infuse into the jackfruit as it simmers. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making a homemade BBQ sauce using ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. This customizable touch allows you to control the sweetness and heat levels, tailoring it to personal preferences and ensuring a unique flavor in your sliders.

As the jackfruit simmers in BBQ sauce, keep an eye on it. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the skillet, and allow it to simmer low and slow, about 20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly. This process not only helps deepen the flavors but also allows the jackfruit to soak in as much of that delicious sauce as possible. The end result should be a glossy mixture that clings well to the sliders.

Customizing Your Sliders

While these sliders are fantastic on their own, there are numerous ways to personalize them. Adding coleslaw introduces a refreshing crunch and balances the rich BBQ jackfruit. For added texture, consider swapping or combining traditional cabbage slaw with other veggies, such as shredded carrots or radishes. The acidity from vinegar-based slaw can heighten the flavors of the barbecue sauce, which makes it an excellent pairing for your sliders.

For extra flavor depth, don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings beyond coleslaw, such as sliced jalapeños for heat or avocado for creaminess. If you prefer a smoky flavor, top your sliders with smoked paprika or even a drizzle of liquid smoke in the jackfruit mixture. These small adjustments can transform the dish and excite your taste buds without altering the core preparation process.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these delicious sliders!

Ingredients

1 can of young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup BBQ sauce
4 slider buns
Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, and extra BBQ sauce

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's get started with the cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your sliders!

Prepare the Jackfruit

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent. Add the drained jackfruit to the skillet and using a fork, shred the jackfruit as it cooks.

Cook with BBQ Sauce

Once the jackfruit is shredded, pour in the BBQ sauce and stir to coat evenly. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the jackfruit to absorb all the flavorful sauce.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the slider buns lightly for added texture. Spoon the BBQ jackfruit mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw, pickles, and any additional BBQ sauce, then cover with the other half of the bun.

Your sliders are ready to serve! Enjoy them with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the jackfruit while it cooks. You can also experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders can be a great make-ahead option. Preparing the jackfruit mixture a day in advance not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together, creating an even tastier filling. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or more BBQ sauce to maintain moisture.

If you need to extend the shelf life of the jackfruit mixture, consider freezing it. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can last up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for optimal texture.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are incredibly versatile and can be served alongside a variety of sides. For a classic pairing, offer some crispy sweet potato fries or potato wedges, which complement the sliders’ smoky flavors well. A simple side salad or roasted vegetables also provide a fresh counterbalance to the richness of the BBQ jackfruit.

For a more festive approach, consider turning these sliders into part of a platter, surrounded by an array of dips, pickles, and chips. This way, your guests can enjoy a fun and communal dining experience. Don't forget your favorite drinks, as the sliders' flavors pair well with both beer and non-alcoholic beverages like iced tea or lemonade.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jackfruit mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before assembling the sliders.

→ What can I substitute for the BBQ sauce?

You can use any sauce you prefer, such as teriyaki or homemade sauces to customize the flavor.

→ Is jackfruit nutritious?

Absolutely! Jackfruit is low in calories and a good source of dietary fiber while providing some essential vitamins and minerals.

→ Can I freeze the jackfruit mixture?

Yes, the BBQ jackfruit can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to use it.